Houck allowed a hit and hit a batter while striking out two in a scoreless inning to earn the save in Friday's 4-3 win over the Mariners.

EDGE Analysis

Houck needed 22 pitches (13 strikes) to get through the frame, but he was able to escape with his first save of the campaign. The right-hander has seen a versatile role throughout the year, but manager Alex Cora is committed to giving him a look in high-leverage relief situations going forward. Through 41.2 innings in 15 appearances (four starts), Houck has a 3.46 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 40:16 K:BB. With Hansel Robles back from the injured list Thursday, the back end of the Red Sox's bullpen is likely to grow increasingly crowded until a favorite for saves emerges.